---------------------------------

This is great stuff that really speaks to the value of an experienced, respected catching vet and his impact on the pitcher and the game. I highly recommend the posted article in full, below. I've learned something I hadn't known.

Here's an Example From the NY Times:

"Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?"

"It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on

Full Article: LINK - NY Times

"PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Every morning around 8, the school bell rings in the Mets’ clubhouse, the catchers gather in their seats, and class begins.

Morning tutorials are informal, often led by Rod Barajas, the adjunct professor of catching; Henry Blanco, the associate professor; and Chris Coste, the senior lecturer. Laboratory work on the field usually begins at 9:30, followed by lunchtime discussion periods in which students like Josh Thole, Omir Santos and Mike Nickeas ask questions and ruminate on the art of catching as they pursue a master’s in the discipline.

The course is like Catching 501, a seminar on the advanced study of baseball’s most demanding position. The curriculum is the accumulated knowledge of three sage veterans, all dissected and absorbed by a most attentive student body.

“That’s what it is,” Thole said. “If they put a PowerPoint up, I would sit there and listen to all of it.”

Catching is so comprehensive that subjects can be broken down into many different categories: mechanics of the position, receiving pitches in a manner to elicit a strike call, throwing, blocking pitches, blocking the plate and catching pop fouls. All of these are discussed daily.

The Mets put the catchers’ lockers in one area, something they also do with those of pitchers and most of the infielders and outfielders. But the Mets have so many catchers in camp that each one said he had never been in a clubhouse with that many before, nor had the conversations been so catching intensive.

Most of the lockers are in a line. Barajas, however, arrived late after signing as a free agent and was given one across from the rest, giving a circular feel to their grouping. That fosters more interaction among the group.

At any given point in the day, a passerby may see Barajas holding his hand as if to receive a pitch and saying things like, “Away, away, away.”

Blanco sits back and discusses a pitcher he has caught and what he thinks of the movement on his pitches. Thole often leans forward in his chair, eyes zeroed in, rapt with attention at the wisdom being shared. Kai Gronauer, a minor leaguer from Solingen, Germany, listens in from the edge and cannot believe his good fortune.

“These are some of the best things I’ve ever heard about catching,” he said. “I learn new things every day.”

Each of the catchers independently estimated that 70 to 80 percent of the time when they sit at their lockers together, usually at least three times a day, the conversation revolves around being a catcher.

Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?

“It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on.”

There are also the nuances of calling pitches, of reading the demeanor of the pitcher, of getting the best possible performance from him, and also knowing the opposing hitters and umpires, too. Every catcher is also a pitching coach.

“And psychologist,” said Coste, 37, who spent 11 years in the minor leagues before being called up by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2006. “It’s such a tough position, both mentally and physically. There’s no easy position in baseball, but catching is the toughest. You have to be more prepared mentally than everyone else. There’s so much more to it than any other position.”

That, Coste said, often creates a brotherhood among catchers, which is part of the reason there is no friction in this group, despite the fact they are competing against one an other in some form.

“Sometimes you get guys that are competing against each other, they aren’t that close and they are holding stuff back,” said Nickeas, 27, who has spent six years in the minors. “Not these guys. They are so gracious with their information and time. It’s invaluable to us.”

The one player the Mets most want to interact with the veterans is Thole, whom the team sees as its catcher of the future. He has been particularly attentive, the veterans say.

Thole, 23, only converted to the position for any meaningful time in 2008 and has worked diligently to catch up, so to speak. He admits to “wearing out” Barajas and Blanco, his two closest locker neighbors, with questions, but neither veteran seems to see it that way.

“All the questions they ask are good,” said Blanco, who is expected to be the backup. “It’s very interesting.”

Soon after he arrived in camp, Barajas told Thole not to worry about pestering him with questions. He likes him, and he knows the Mets want him to help Thole graduate one day.

“We talk about other things sometimes,” Barajas said, “but it always gets back to catching.”


Personally, I see some impact on Santos who is less "nosy" behind the plate to the extent I actually thought it was Barajas or Riggans behind the plate in two games.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Tolerance,

This is nice, but the real question is, why aren't the Mets' minor league catchers learning these tips from the minor league coaching staff? If we hadn't signed Barajas, does this mean none of this information would ever have been imparted to Thole?

quote:

Originally posted by PumpsieGreen:
This is nice, but the real question is, why aren't the Mets' minor league catchers learning these tips from the minor league coaching staff? If we hadn't signed Barajas, does this mean none of this information would ever have been imparted to Thole?

great question....and valid....I heard(insert reliable..no,make that extremely reliable source)Nick Evans received very little insrtuction,if any at all,during his minor league stint when he was learning the outfield..

I agree with both of you fellas and can see why so many of our kids pass thru the system underdeveloped and challenged in fundamentals. Regarding the multiple catching acquisitions,wouldn't it have made more sense to bring in a knowledgable and better model in Jerry Grote to teach and lecture rather than depend on a collection or ordinary to decent examples? In Coste,Barajas and Blanco,we aren't talking about Cochran,Campanella,Bench or Berra here,which leads me to my constant war cry. WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH OMIR SANTOS,FOR CHRIST SAKE???? What? He doesn't have experience in the art of catching,being in the minors for 8 years? Just the other day,Ron Darling,A PITCHER,said he LOVES the way Santos relaxes his battery mate and frames pitches. The guy can flat out play and has proven it throwing,fielding and receiving! Oh Yeah,he can hit some too!!! Perhaps he can teach Barajas,Coste and Blanco a few things!! He is 6-8 years younger than this needless collection to boot and all indications are he is on the upswing of his career! This situation reminds me of the many times I search for my glasses,but finally realize they are resting on my nose!!!

quote:

Originally posted by Tolerance:


---------------------------------

This is great stuff that really speaks to the value of an experienced, respected catching vet and his impact on the pitcher and the game. I highly recommend the posted article in full, below. I've learned something I hadn't known.

Here's an Example From the NY Times:

"Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?"

"It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on

Full Article: LINK - NY Times

"PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Every morning around 8, the school bell rings in the Mets’ clubhouse, the catchers gather in their seats, and class begins.

Morning tutorials are informal, often led by Rod Barajas, the adjunct professor of catching; Henry Blanco, the associate professor; and Chris Coste, the senior lecturer. Laboratory work on the field usually begins at 9:30, followed by lunchtime discussion periods in which students like Josh Thole, Omir Santos and Mike Nickeas ask questions and ruminate on the art of catching as they pursue a master’s in the discipline.

The course is like Catching 501, a seminar on the advanced study of baseball’s most demanding position. The curriculum is the accumulated knowledge of three sage veterans, all dissected and absorbed by a most attentive student body.

“That’s what it is,” Thole said. “If they put a PowerPoint up, I would sit there and listen to all of it.”

Catching is so comprehensive that subjects can be broken down into many different categories: mechanics of the position, receiving pitches in a manner to elicit a strike call, throwing, blocking pitches, blocking the plate and catching pop fouls. All of these are discussed daily.

The Mets put the catchers’ lockers in one area, something they also do with those of pitchers and most of the infielders and outfielders. But the Mets have so many catchers in camp that each one said he had never been in a clubhouse with that many before, nor had the conversations been so catching intensive.

Most of the lockers are in a line. Barajas, however, arrived late after signing as a free agent and was given one across from the rest, giving a circular feel to their grouping. That fosters more interaction among the group.

At any given point in the day, a passerby may see Barajas holding his hand as if to receive a pitch and saying things like, “Away, away, away.”

Blanco sits back and discusses a pitcher he has caught and what he thinks of the movement on his pitches. Thole often leans forward in his chair, eyes zeroed in, rapt with attention at the wisdom being shared. Kai Gronauer, a minor leaguer from Solingen, Germany, listens in from the edge and cannot believe his good fortune.

“These are some of the best things I’ve ever heard about catching,” he said. “I learn new things every day.”

Each of the catchers independently estimated that 70 to 80 percent of the time when they sit at their lockers together, usually at least three times a day, the conversation revolves around being a catcher.

Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?

“It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on.”

There are also the nuances of calling pitches, of reading the demeanor of the pitcher, of getting the best possible performance from him, and also knowing the opposing hitters and umpires, too. Every catcher is also a pitching coach.

“And psychologist,” said Coste, 37, who spent 11 years in the minor leagues before being called up by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2006. “It’s such a tough position, both mentally and physically. There’s no easy position in baseball, but catching is the toughest. You have to be more prepared mentally than everyone else. There’s so much more to it than any other position.”

That, Coste said, often creates a brotherhood among catchers, which is part of the reason there is no friction in this group, despite the fact they are competing against one an other in some form.

“Sometimes you get guys that are competing against each other, they aren’t that close and they are holding stuff back,” said Nickeas, 27, who has spent six years in the minors. “Not these guys. They are so gracious with their information and time. It’s invaluable to us.”

The one player the Mets most want to interact with the veterans is Thole, whom the team sees as its catcher of the future. He has been particularly attentive, the veterans say.

Thole, 23, only converted to the position for any meaningful time in 2008 and has worked diligently to catch up, so to speak. He admits to “wearing out” Barajas and Blanco, his two closest locker neighbors, with questions, but neither veteran seems to see it that way.

“All the questions they ask are good,” said Blanco, who is expected to be the backup. “It’s very interesting.”

Soon after he arrived in camp, Barajas told Thole not to worry about pestering him with questions. He likes him, and he knows the Mets want him to help Thole graduate one day.

“We talk about other things sometimes,” Barajas said, “but it always gets back to catching.”


Personally, I see some impact on Santos who is less "nosy" behind the plate to the extent I actually thought it was Barajas or Riggans behind the plate in two games.

I don't know what you mean by "nosy",Tol,but as far as I am concerned,Santos,with his numerous years of experience behind the plate,looks to be the same solid defensive catcher,receiver, thrower and fundamentally sound player he did last season.

quote:

Originally posted by PumpsieGreen:
This is nice, but the real question is, why aren't the Mets' minor league catchers learning these tips from the minor league coaching staff? If we hadn't signed Barajas, does this mean none of this information would ever have been imparted to Thole?

I suppose it depends upon quality of catching coach(s) and what knowledge he/they have. Barajas is noted as fine defensive catcher and I infer the possibility that not all catchers aspire to his attention to detail, or are around long enough to learn enough from such - and hence, his tips and tricks might differ from other catchers.

So Mets have two well respected vet catchers - each with vast array of experiences to impart to their less experienced teammates.

quote:

Originally posted by Lucky:

quote:

Originally posted by Tolerance:


---------------------------------

This is great stuff that really speaks to the value of an experienced, respected catching vet and his impact on the pitcher and the game. I highly recommend the posted article in full, below. I've learned something I hadn't known.

Here's an Example From the NY Times:

"Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?"

"It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on

Full Article: LINK - NY Times

"PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Every morning around 8, the school bell rings in the Mets’ clubhouse, the catchers gather in their seats, and class begins.

Morning tutorials are informal, often led by Rod Barajas, the adjunct professor of catching; Henry Blanco, the associate professor; and Chris Coste, the senior lecturer. Laboratory work on the field usually begins at 9:30, followed by lunchtime discussion periods in which students like Josh Thole, Omir Santos and Mike Nickeas ask questions and ruminate on the art of catching as they pursue a master’s in the discipline.

The course is like Catching 501, a seminar on the advanced study of baseball’s most demanding position. The curriculum is the accumulated knowledge of three sage veterans, all dissected and absorbed by a most attentive student body.

“That’s what it is,” Thole said. “If they put a PowerPoint up, I would sit there and listen to all of it.”

Catching is so comprehensive that subjects can be broken down into many different categories: mechanics of the position, receiving pitches in a manner to elicit a strike call, throwing, blocking pitches, blocking the plate and catching pop fouls. All of these are discussed daily.

The Mets put the catchers’ lockers in one area, something they also do with those of pitchers and most of the infielders and outfielders. But the Mets have so many catchers in camp that each one said he had never been in a clubhouse with that many before, nor had the conversations been so catching intensive.

Most of the lockers are in a line. Barajas, however, arrived late after signing as a free agent and was given one across from the rest, giving a circular feel to their grouping. That fosters more interaction among the group.

At any given point in the day, a passerby may see Barajas holding his hand as if to receive a pitch and saying things like, “Away, away, away.”

Blanco sits back and discusses a pitcher he has caught and what he thinks of the movement on his pitches. Thole often leans forward in his chair, eyes zeroed in, rapt with attention at the wisdom being shared. Kai Gronauer, a minor leaguer from Solingen, Germany, listens in from the edge and cannot believe his good fortune.

“These are some of the best things I’ve ever heard about catching,” he said. “I learn new things every day.”

Each of the catchers independently estimated that 70 to 80 percent of the time when they sit at their lockers together, usually at least three times a day, the conversation revolves around being a catcher.

Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?

“It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on.”

There are also the nuances of calling pitches, of reading the demeanor of the pitcher, of getting the best possible performance from him, and also knowing the opposing hitters and umpires, too. Every catcher is also a pitching coach.

“And psychologist,” said Coste, 37, who spent 11 years in the minor leagues before being called up by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2006. “It’s such a tough position, both mentally and physically. There’s no easy position in baseball, but catching is the toughest. You have to be more prepared mentally than everyone else. There’s so much more to it than any other position.”

That, Coste said, often creates a brotherhood among catchers, which is part of the reason there is no friction in this group, despite the fact they are competing against one an other in some form.

“Sometimes you get guys that are competing against each other, they aren’t that close and they are holding stuff back,” said Nickeas, 27, who has spent six years in the minors. “Not these guys. They are so gracious with their information and time. It’s invaluable to us.”

The one player the Mets most want to interact with the veterans is Thole, whom the team sees as its catcher of the future. He has been particularly attentive, the veterans say.

Thole, 23, only converted to the position for any meaningful time in 2008 and has worked diligently to catch up, so to speak. He admits to “wearing out” Barajas and Blanco, his two closest locker neighbors, with questions, but neither veteran seems to see it that way.

“All the questions they ask are good,” said Blanco, who is expected to be the backup. “It’s very interesting.”

Soon after he arrived in camp, Barajas told Thole not to worry about pestering him with questions. He likes him, and he knows the Mets want him to help Thole graduate one day.

“We talk about other things sometimes,” Barajas said, “but it always gets back to catching.”


Personally, I see some impact on Santos who is less "nosy" behind the plate to the extent I actually thought it was Barajas or Riggans behind the plate in two games.

I don't know what you mean by "nosy",Tol,but as far as I am concerned,Santos,with his numerous years of experience behind the plate,looks to be the same solid defensive catcher,receiver, thrower and fundamentally sound player he did last season.

- That's funny...I meant noisy.

Regarding Santos, he looks better to me behind the dish using better technique to frame pitches.

quote:

Originally posted by Tolerance:

quote:

Originally posted by Lucky:

quote:

Originally posted by Tolerance:


---------------------------------

This is great stuff that really speaks to the value of an experienced, respected catching vet and his impact on the pitcher and the game. I highly recommend the posted article in full, below. I've learned something I hadn't known.

Here's an Example From the NY Times:

"Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?"

"It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on

Full Article: LINK - NY Times

"PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Every morning around 8, the school bell rings in the Mets’ clubhouse, the catchers gather in their seats, and class begins.

Morning tutorials are informal, often led by Rod Barajas, the adjunct professor of catching; Henry Blanco, the associate professor; and Chris Coste, the senior lecturer. Laboratory work on the field usually begins at 9:30, followed by lunchtime discussion periods in which students like Josh Thole, Omir Santos and Mike Nickeas ask questions and ruminate on the art of catching as they pursue a master’s in the discipline.

The course is like Catching 501, a seminar on the advanced study of baseball’s most demanding position. The curriculum is the accumulated knowledge of three sage veterans, all dissected and absorbed by a most attentive student body.

“That’s what it is,” Thole said. “If they put a PowerPoint up, I would sit there and listen to all of it.”

Catching is so comprehensive that subjects can be broken down into many different categories: mechanics of the position, receiving pitches in a manner to elicit a strike call, throwing, blocking pitches, blocking the plate and catching pop fouls. All of these are discussed daily.

The Mets put the catchers’ lockers in one area, something they also do with those of pitchers and most of the infielders and outfielders. But the Mets have so many catchers in camp that each one said he had never been in a clubhouse with that many before, nor had the conversations been so catching intensive.

Most of the lockers are in a line. Barajas, however, arrived late after signing as a free agent and was given one across from the rest, giving a circular feel to their grouping. That fosters more interaction among the group.

At any given point in the day, a passerby may see Barajas holding his hand as if to receive a pitch and saying things like, “Away, away, away.”

Blanco sits back and discusses a pitcher he has caught and what he thinks of the movement on his pitches. Thole often leans forward in his chair, eyes zeroed in, rapt with attention at the wisdom being shared. Kai Gronauer, a minor leaguer from Solingen, Germany, listens in from the edge and cannot believe his good fortune.

“These are some of the best things I’ve ever heard about catching,” he said. “I learn new things every day.”

Each of the catchers independently estimated that 70 to 80 percent of the time when they sit at their lockers together, usually at least three times a day, the conversation revolves around being a catcher.

Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?

“It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on.”

There are also the nuances of calling pitches, of reading the demeanor of the pitcher, of getting the best possible performance from him, and also knowing the opposing hitters and umpires, too. Every catcher is also a pitching coach.

“And psychologist,” said Coste, 37, who spent 11 years in the minor leagues before being called up by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2006. “It’s such a tough position, both mentally and physically. There’s no easy position in baseball, but catching is the toughest. You have to be more prepared mentally than everyone else. There’s so much more to it than any other position.”

That, Coste said, often creates a brotherhood among catchers, which is part of the reason there is no friction in this group, despite the fact they are competing against one an other in some form.

“Sometimes you get guys that are competing against each other, they aren’t that close and they are holding stuff back,” said Nickeas, 27, who has spent six years in the minors. “Not these guys. They are so gracious with their information and time. It’s invaluable to us.”

The one player the Mets most want to interact with the veterans is Thole, whom the team sees as its catcher of the future. He has been particularly attentive, the veterans say.

Thole, 23, only converted to the position for any meaningful time in 2008 and has worked diligently to catch up, so to speak. He admits to “wearing out” Barajas and Blanco, his two closest locker neighbors, with questions, but neither veteran seems to see it that way.

“All the questions they ask are good,” said Blanco, who is expected to be the backup. “It’s very interesting.”

Soon after he arrived in camp, Barajas told Thole not to worry about pestering him with questions. He likes him, and he knows the Mets want him to help Thole graduate one day.

“We talk about other things sometimes,” Barajas said, “but it always gets back to catching.”


Personally, I see some impact on Santos who is less "nosy" behind the plate to the extent I actually thought it was Barajas or Riggans behind the plate in two games.

I don't know what you mean by "nosy",Tol,but as far as I am concerned,Santos,with his numerous years of experience behind the plate,looks to be the same solid defensive catcher,receiver, thrower and fundamentally sound player he did last season.

- That's funny...I meant noisy.

Regarding Santos, he looks better to me behind the dish using better technique to frame pitches.

Perhaps he is now asking for personal stock market tips,Tol? Seriously,Tol,I 'always' observed Santos having a relaxed glove with framing pitches being a strength,not a flaw. The only thing I can make of all this hulabaloo,perception and resulting collection of catchers is possibly deflecting blame away from Warthan(Created by he) and his pitchers failure to command and locate. Its alot easier to blame a former minor leaguer with a modest reputation,using him as a smokecreen,than pointing the finger where it really belongs for lack of success. Omir has worked quite hard to shed his label as minor league backstop and has done everything necessary to earn his chance. I find it grossly unfair and disgusting that politics may be a tool in his being slighted and thwarted of his career moving foward and suspect that Warthan has nudged Manuel and Omar trying to save his own a-s-s!!!

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Lucky,

quote:

quote:
Originally posted by PumpsieGreen:
This is nice, but the real question is, why aren't the Mets' minor league catchers learning these tips from the minor league coaching staff? If we hadn't signed Barajas, does this mean none of this information would ever have been imparted to Thole?


I suppose it depends upon quality of catching coach(s) and what knowledge he/they have. Barajas is noted as fine defensive catcher and I infer the possibility that not all catchers aspire to his attention to detail, or are around long enough to learn enough from such - and hence, his tips and tricks might differ from other catchers.

So Mets have two well respected vet catchers - each with vast array of experiences to impart to their less experienced teammates.

I find it difficult to believe that only Barajas has this knowledge. Surely among the ranks of former major league catchers there must be some who know as much, and more, about the tricks of the trade, and who would be available for hire by the Mets organization to teach the minor leaguers. I welcome the fact that Barajas is now providing that instruction, but I continue to question why the organization has not been providing it all along.

quote:

Originally posted by PumpsieGreen:

quote:

quote:
Originally posted by PumpsieGreen:
This is nice, but the real question is, why aren't the Mets' minor league catchers learning these tips from the minor league coaching staff? If we hadn't signed Barajas, does this mean none of this information would ever have been imparted to Thole?


I suppose it depends upon quality of catching coach(s) and what knowledge he/they have. Barajas is noted as fine defensive catcher and I infer the possibility that not all catchers aspire to his attention to detail, or are around long enough to learn enough from such - and hence, his tips and tricks might differ from other catchers.

So Mets have two well respected vet catchers - each with vast array of experiences to impart to their less experienced teammates.

I find it difficult to believe that only Barajas has this knowledge. Surely among the ranks of former major league catchers there must be some who know as much, and more, about the tricks of the trade, and who would be available for hire by the Mets organization to teach the minor leaguers. I welcome the fact that Barajas is now providing that instruction, but I continue to question why the organization has not been providing it all along.

cause its the mets. has anything in the past few seasons made any sense? maybe 1, sure, but add this to the list of bs, us fans see as a problem, that the wilpons and omar think is no biggie. Why should Omar care though, he knows he wont last past july.

quote:

Originally posted by Lucky:

quote:

Originally posted by Tolerance:

quote:

Originally posted by Lucky:

quote:

Originally posted by Tolerance:


---------------------------------

This is great stuff that really speaks to the value of an experienced, respected catching vet and his impact on the pitcher and the game. I highly recommend the posted article in full, below. I've learned something I hadn't known.

Here's an Example From the NY Times:

"Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?"

"It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on

Full Article: LINK - NY Times

"PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Every morning around 8, the school bell rings in the Mets’ clubhouse, the catchers gather in their seats, and class begins.

Morning tutorials are informal, often led by Rod Barajas, the adjunct professor of catching; Henry Blanco, the associate professor; and Chris Coste, the senior lecturer. Laboratory work on the field usually begins at 9:30, followed by lunchtime discussion periods in which students like Josh Thole, Omir Santos and Mike Nickeas ask questions and ruminate on the art of catching as they pursue a master’s in the discipline.

The course is like Catching 501, a seminar on the advanced study of baseball’s most demanding position. The curriculum is the accumulated knowledge of three sage veterans, all dissected and absorbed by a most attentive student body.

“That’s what it is,” Thole said. “If they put a PowerPoint up, I would sit there and listen to all of it.”

Catching is so comprehensive that subjects can be broken down into many different categories: mechanics of the position, receiving pitches in a manner to elicit a strike call, throwing, blocking pitches, blocking the plate and catching pop fouls. All of these are discussed daily.

The Mets put the catchers’ lockers in one area, something they also do with those of pitchers and most of the infielders and outfielders. But the Mets have so many catchers in camp that each one said he had never been in a clubhouse with that many before, nor had the conversations been so catching intensive.

Most of the lockers are in a line. Barajas, however, arrived late after signing as a free agent and was given one across from the rest, giving a circular feel to their grouping. That fosters more interaction among the group.

At any given point in the day, a passerby may see Barajas holding his hand as if to receive a pitch and saying things like, “Away, away, away.”

Blanco sits back and discusses a pitcher he has caught and what he thinks of the movement on his pitches. Thole often leans forward in his chair, eyes zeroed in, rapt with attention at the wisdom being shared. Kai Gronauer, a minor leaguer from Solingen, Germany, listens in from the edge and cannot believe his good fortune.

“These are some of the best things I’ve ever heard about catching,” he said. “I learn new things every day.”

Each of the catchers independently estimated that 70 to 80 percent of the time when they sit at their lockers together, usually at least three times a day, the conversation revolves around being a catcher.

Barajas, the likely starter, recently explained to the younger catchers the importance of peeking to see how a hitter’s feet move between pitches in order to gauge where is looking for the next pitch. Then he calls for the opposite location. He also shared the trick of looking at the bat after a foul ball to see where the mark is. Was it on the barrel, meaning the hitter was close and could square up the next one? Or was it on the label, and perhaps the same pitch thrown again might get an out?

“It’s just little itty-bitty information that we see as catchers that nobody else sees,” Barajas, 34, said. “They’re learning the behind-the-scenes stuff that people don’t know about but catchers who have been doing it for a while pick up on.”

There are also the nuances of calling pitches, of reading the demeanor of the pitcher, of getting the best possible performance from him, and also knowing the opposing hitters and umpires, too. Every catcher is also a pitching coach.

“And psychologist,” said Coste, 37, who spent 11 years in the minor leagues before being called up by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2006. “It’s such a tough position, both mentally and physically. There’s no easy position in baseball, but catching is the toughest. You have to be more prepared mentally than everyone else. There’s so much more to it than any other position.”

That, Coste said, often creates a brotherhood among catchers, which is part of the reason there is no friction in this group, despite the fact they are competing against one an other in some form.

“Sometimes you get guys that are competing against each other, they aren’t that close and they are holding stuff back,” said Nickeas, 27, who has spent six years in the minors. “Not these guys. They are so gracious with their information and time. It’s invaluable to us.”

The one player the Mets most want to interact with the veterans is Thole, whom the team sees as its catcher of the future. He has been particularly attentive, the veterans say.

Thole, 23, only converted to the position for any meaningful time in 2008 and has worked diligently to catch up, so to speak. He admits to “wearing out” Barajas and Blanco, his two closest locker neighbors, with questions, but neither veteran seems to see it that way.

“All the questions they ask are good,” said Blanco, who is expected to be the backup. “It’s very interesting.”

Soon after he arrived in camp, Barajas told Thole not to worry about pestering him with questions. He likes him, and he knows the Mets want him to help Thole graduate one day.

“We talk about other things sometimes,” Barajas said, “but it always gets back to catching.”


Personally, I see some impact on Santos who is less "nosy" behind the plate to the extent I actually thought it was Barajas or Riggans behind the plate in two games.

I don't know what you mean by "nosy",Tol,but as far as I am concerned,Santos,with his numerous years of experience behind the plate,looks to be the same solid defensive catcher,receiver, thrower and fundamentally sound player he did last season.

- That's funny...I meant noisy.

Regarding Santos, he looks better to me behind the dish using better technique to frame pitches.

Perhaps he is now asking for personal stock market tips,Tol? Seriously,Tol,I 'always' observed Santos having a relaxed glove with framing pitches being a strength,not a flaw. The only thing I can make of all this hulabaloo,perception and resulting collection of catchers is possibly deflecting blame away from Warthan(Created by he) and his pitchers failure to command and locate. Its alot easier to blame a former minor leaguer with a modest reputation,using him as a smokecreen,than pointing the finger where it really belongs for lack of success. Omir has worked quite hard to shed his label as minor league backstop and has done everything necessary to earn his chance. I find it grossly unfair and disgusting that politics may be a tool in his being slighted and thwarted of his career moving foward and suspect that Warthan has nudged Manuel and Omar trying to save his own a-s-s!!!

Lucky, my opinion is from personal observation, not Warthen comments, or anyone else's opinion.

I think Santos did overall nice job last season, but has big room to grow. I definitely see an improvement this spring in his framing...it's smoother and much less noticeable which is the goal in swaying the ump.

The Mets want veteran major league experienced catchers for 2010 to guide the rotation. Omir doesn't fit the criteria but needs to be ready to take over at a moment's notice should injury occur to Barajas or Blanco.

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Originally posted by PumpsieGreen:

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Originally posted by PumpsieGreen:
This is nice, but the real question is, why aren't the Mets' minor league catchers learning these tips from the minor league coaching staff? If we hadn't signed Barajas, does this mean none of this information would ever have been imparted to Thole?


I suppose it depends upon quality of catching coach(s) and what knowledge he/they have. Barajas is noted as fine defensive catcher and I infer the possibility that not all catchers aspire to his attention to detail, or are around long enough to learn enough from such - and hence, his tips and tricks might differ from other catchers.

So Mets have two well respected vet catchers - each with vast array of experiences to impart to their less experienced teammates.

I find it difficult to believe that only Barajas has this knowledge. Surely among the ranks of former major league catchers there must be some who know as much, and more, about the tricks of the trade, and who would be available for hire by the Mets organization to teach the minor leaguers. I welcome the fact that Barajas is now providing that instruction, but I continue to question why the organization has not been providing it all along.

I never said only Barajas has the knowledge. Every vet catcher brings his own unique experience to the fold as does every vet pitcher and position player. Until this season, the Mets had a fine catching coach at the major league level - Sandy Alomar Jr who worked hard with the young catchers.

However, what I hear you saying is that vets should never teach younger players or even need to if there's a good coach. That's just not the way it works. Vets - from pitchers, to position players regularly talk baseball and impart knowledge to teammates, be it spring training or during the season. This is longstanding baseball culture and is what has honed and advanced the game for generations and makes it great. If Tony Gywnn is my teammate, should I not need to pick his brain because the hitting coach is Rod Carew?

Tol is right.

It in no way undermines a coach when veteran ballplayers help younger teamates.

I think we are two ships passing each other in the night.

Obviously I am very happy when veterans share their knowledge with young players. My comment was that, upon reading the article about Barajas and his specific knowledge, I found it hard to believe that in the entire baseball universe only Barajas has this knowledge. It seems to me that this stuff is pretty basic for a catcher, and surely there are retired catchers who know these tips. My question is, why did the Mets have to wait to sign Barajas as a free agent in order to get the benefit of this knowledge? Why don't they have someone like Jerry Grote (as another poster suggested) teaching the catchers in the minors, so they don't have to rely on happenstance meetings with Barajas to get trained?